10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Jaw Clenching

Herbal tinctures for jaw clenching are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, flowers, and roots that help alleviate tension in the jaw muscles caused by stress, anxiety, or misalignment.

These natural remedies work by relaxing the muscles, reducing inflammation, and promoting a healthy nervous system response. Examples of herbal tinctures effective against jaw clenching include valerian root, passionflower, and lemon balm.

By using these tinctures, individuals can experience relief from chronic pain and discomfort, allowing them to eat, speak, and smile with ease, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for jaw clenching, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Piper methysticum

Kava tinctures helps with jaw clenching because it targets the underlying anxiety and stress that often contribute to teeth grinding.

The plant's active compounds, including kavalactones, work to calm the nervous system, reducing feelings of tension and promoting relaxation.

As a result, individuals who use kava tincture may experience a decrease in jaw clenching and teeth grinding, leading to improved overall oral health and reduced discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Kavalactones: These compounds have been shown to have a relaxing effect on muscles, which may help alleviate jaw clenching by reducing muscle tension.
• Stilbenes: Stilbenes, such as isorhapontigenin, have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with jaw clenching.
• Furostanol saponins: Furostanol saponins, such as diosgenin, have been found to have anxiolytic and sedative effects, which may help reduce anxiety and stress that can contribute to jaw clenching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Roots: The roots of Piper methysticum are commonly used due to their high concentration of kavalactones, which are known for their analgesic and muscle-relaxing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their kavalactone content, which helps to reduce muscle tension and alleviate jaw clenching.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest the aerial parts of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area at a temperature below 40 degrees celsius for 1-2 weeks.
3. Crush the dried plant material using a mortar and pestle to release its active compounds and oils.
4. Combine the crushed plant material with a neutral solvent such as ethanol or glycerin in a ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 for 6-8 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop tinctures helps with jaw clenching because of its unique blend of herbs that work together to ease tension in the jaw muscles.

The antispasmodic properties of passionflower, a key ingredient in maypop tincture, help to relax the muscles and reduce spasms, while the adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha help to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that often contribute to jaw clenching.

The result is a natural relief from tension headaches and facial pain caused by clenched jaws.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Harmane: This tryptophan-derived alkaloid may help with jaw clenching by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and acting as a mild sedative.
• Isovitexin: A flavonoid glycoside, isovitexin may contribute to its muscle relaxant properties, helping to alleviate tension and spasms in the jaw muscles.
• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and relaxing effects, which may help to reduce jaw tension and promote muscle relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and alkaloids that contribute to the plant's sedative properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce jaw tension.
• Fruits: The pulp of the fruit contains a high concentration of passifloric acid, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate jaw clenching symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are rich in flavonoids, which are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially helping to reduce jaw clenching and related anxiety.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves by cutting them at dawn when they are at their highest potency and freshness level.
2. Cleanse the harvested flowers and leaves by washing them with cold water to remove dirt and impurities.
3. Dry the cleaned flowers and leaves by spreading them out in a single layer on paper bags for 7 to 10 days.
4. Steep one part of dried passiflora incarnata in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the tincture by pouring it through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass jar.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with jaw clenching because its calming properties can effectively soothe muscle tension in the face, jaw, and neck.

The herb's sedative effects can help to relax the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), reducing the frequency and severity of clenching and grinding habits. As a natural stress reliever, valerian tinctures can also alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation, further contributing to a decrease in jaw tension and discomfort.

By addressing underlying causes of bruxism, valerian tinctures offer a holistic approach to managing jaw clenching and promoting overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Valerenic acid: This terpene helps with jaw clenching by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms in the jaw, thereby alleviating tension.
• Valeranone: This sesquiterpene is believed to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and stress-related jaw clenching.
• Valerenol: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help regulate jaw muscle activity and reduce clenching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Roots: They are the primary source of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the plant's sedative and muscle-relaxing properties.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves contain a significant amount of valerenic acid and other active compounds, contributing to their use in tinctures for jaw clenching and anxiety relief.
• Seeds: Valerian seeds, although less commonly used than roots, are also a source of valerenic acid and other active compounds, making them a potential alternative for tincture production.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest clean valeriana officinalis roots in late spring or early fall when the plant is in full growth.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks or use a dehydrator at 95°f for 8 hours.
3. Use a 1:5 ratio of dried valeriana officinalis roots to 95% ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the container every day for optimal extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids after 2-6 weeks of steeping.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with jaw clenching because of its calming and relaxing properties.

The herb's essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce muscle tension and stress in the face and neck, which can contribute to jaw clenching and bruxism.

As a natural anxiolytic, lavender tincture helps to soothe anxiety and promote relaxation, allowing individuals to release physical tension and relax their jaw muscles, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of jaw clenching episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Linalool: This terpene helps with jaw clenching by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension in the jaw and face, thereby reducing symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene contributes to the muscle-relaxing and anti-anxiety properties of Lavandula angustifolia, which can help alleviate jaw clenching and other symptoms associated with stress and anxiety.
• Lavandulol: This terpene has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce muscle spasms and tension in the jaw, leading to a decrease in jaw clenching and associated pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used in tinctures to help with jaw clenching due to their calming and relaxing properties.
• Buds: The buds of Lavandula angustifolia are used in tinctures to help with jaw clenching due to their ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Flowers: The flowers of Lavandula angustifolia are used in tinctures to help with jaw clenching due to their calming and soothing effects on the nervous system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest mature lavandula angustifolia flowers during their peak bloom in the summer months.
2. Dry the fresh flowers in a warm area or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried flowers with 1000 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it daily for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

5. Bacopa monnieri

Brahmi tinctures helps with jaw clenching because of its ability to calm the mind and nervous system.

The herb's adaptogenic properties help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for jaw clenching. By promoting relaxation and reducing mental tension, Brahmi tinctures can help alleviate physical symptoms such as teeth grinding and jaw pain.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe irritated muscles and joints in the face and neck, further reducing discomfort and stiffness associated with chronic jaw clenching.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Bacosides: Bacosides, a group of saponins, have been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety that may contribute to jaw clenching.
• Bacoside a: Bacoside A has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties, which can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, both of which can help alleviate jaw clenching.
• Bacopa alkaloids: Bacopa alkaloids have been found to have a sedative effect, which can help calm the nervous system and reduce muscle tension in the jaw, thus helping to alleviate jaw clenching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of bacosides, which are believed to reduce anxiety and stress that may contribute to jaw clenching.
• Roots: Utilized because they contain a rich mix of bioactive compounds, including bacosides, that help alleviate stress and anxiety.
• Stems: Employed for their bacoside content, which may help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest 100-200 grams of freshly dried bacopa monnieri leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Combine the cleaned bacopa monnieri material with 500ml of 80% ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
3. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks or until the liquid becomes dark brown in color.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Label and store the bacopa monnieri tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years or use it immediately.

6. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with jaw clenching because it possesses adaptogenic properties that help to reduce stress and anxiety, two primary triggers of jaw tension.

The herb's ability to calm the nervous system can relax the facial muscles, releasing tension in the jaw and alleviating symptoms of bruxism, also known as teeth grinding or clenching.

Additionally, ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties may help to soothe any resulting pain and discomfort, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing the frequency and severity of jaw clenching episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate jaw clenching and related tension by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the jaw muscles.
• Withaferin a: This alkaloid has been shown to possess potent anti-anxiety and anti-stress effects, which may help manage stress-related jaw clenching by regulating the body's response to stress and promoting relaxation.
• Ashwagandhanso: These phenolic compounds have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the jaw muscles from oxidative damage and inflammation, thereby reducing jaw clenching and related discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which contribute to their therapeutic effects.
• Leaves: They contain a similar set of bioactive compounds as the roots, including withanolides, which may help alleviate jaw clenching symptoms.
• Seeds: They are a rich source of withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce jaw clenching and related pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for jaw clenching.

1. Gather 500g of dried withania somnifera root and 750ml of 80 proof vodka for tincture preparation.
2. Combine the dried root with 1 cup of vodka in a clean glass jar to create a mixture.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container to separate the liquid.
5. Store the final tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use.

7. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with jaw clenching because of its calming and soothing properties, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that often contribute to teeth grinding and clenching.

The herbal remedy contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.

Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate any discomfort or pain associated with jaw clenching, allowing for a more relaxed and comfortable oral structure.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a muscle relaxant, helping to reduce muscle tension in the jaw and alleviate jaw clenching.
• Apiole: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, which contribute to its ability to ease jaw tension and clenching.
• Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene alcohol is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to calm the jaw muscles and reduce clenching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Flowers: They contain apigenin and luteolin, which have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help reduce muscle tension associated with jaw clenching.
• Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate jaw pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
• Seeds: They contain chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce pain in the jaw.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Dry the flowers completely using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create the tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with jaw clenching because it contains menthol, a natural analgesic that relaxes tense muscles.

When taken internally as a tincture, peppermint oil can ease jaw tension by reducing inflammation and soothing irritated tissues. Additionally, the cooling sensation of peppermint can help distract from pain and discomfort, providing quick relief from jaw clenching caused by stress, anxiety, or dental issues.

As a result, herbal peppermint tinctures offer a natural and effective way to calm jaw tension and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpenoid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with jaw clenching.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce muscle tension and inflammation in the jaw, alleviating jaw clenching symptoms.
• Menthol: This terpene has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties, which can help relax muscles, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve blood flow to the jaw area, alleviating jaw clenching symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are commonly used due to their high concentration of menthol, which acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory to relieve jaw pain.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are also utilized for their ability to reduce inflammation and provide relaxation, helping to alleviate tension in the jaw muscles.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita, like the leaves, contain menthol, which helps to numb the pain and reduce inflammation, providing relief from jaw clenching.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Clean and dry the harvested leaves thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage with paper towels.
3. Combine the dried leaves with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar at a 1:2 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.

9. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with jaw clenching because of its calming and relaxing properties.

The herb contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, which work together to soothe tense muscles and reduce anxiety and stress.

When we're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it's common for us to subconsciously clench our jaws, but lemon balm tinctures can help calm the nervous system and alleviate this tension, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing jaw clenching.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that exhibits anti-anxiety and muscle relaxant properties, which can help alleviate jaw clenching caused by stress and anxiety.
• Glycosides: Specifically, melitoside and verbascoside, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, potentially reducing muscle tension and jaw clenching.
• Linalool: A terpene with a sedative effect, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, thereby decreasing the likelihood of jaw clenching.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Stems: The stems are used to create a tincture that can help relax the muscles and reduce tension in the jaw, which can contribute to jaw clenching.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make a tincture that can help alleviate anxiety and stress, which are common underlying causes of jaw clenching.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean and dry the plant material thoroughly by spreading it on paper towels for 1 week.
3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and combine it with 70 vodka or 25 glycerin as solvent in a 1 to 5 ratio.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a clean glass jar for 2 to 4 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid tincture from the solids.

10. Scutellaria lateriflora

Skullcap tinctures helps with jaw clenching because it contains a compound called baicalin, which has a calming effect on the nervous system.

When taken as a supplement, skullcap tincture can help reduce anxiety and stress, common triggers of jaw clenching. Additionally, skullcap's sedative properties can help relax the muscles in the face and jaw, reducing tension and discomfort associated with bruxism.

By promoting relaxation and calming the mind and body, herbal skullcap tinctures offer a natural solution for alleviating jaw clenching symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria lateriflora tinctures that help with jaw clenching.

• Bartogenic acid: This iridoid glycoside has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, which may help reduce muscle tension and alleviate jaw clenching associated with anxiety and stress.
• Bartosin: A flavonoid glycoside with demonstrated anxiolytic and muscle relaxant properties, bartosin may help calm the mind and body, reducing the likelihood of jaw clenching and related muscle strain.
• Oleuropein: A secoiridoid glycoside with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, oleuropein may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to jaw clenching and associated pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make tinctures for jaw clenching.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of active compounds, such as baicalein and baicalin, which have anti-anxiety and muscle-relaxing properties.
• Flowers: They are often used for their flavonoids, such as baicalein and baicalin, which have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing effects, helping to ease jaw clenching.
• Roots: They are traditionally used due to their rich content of active compounds like baicalein and baicalin, which may help to reduce anxiety and muscle tension in the jaw.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap for jaw clenching.

1. Harvest fresh scutellaria lateriflora flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency for maximum effectiveness.
2. Dry the harvested flowers completely using a dehydrator on a low setting for 8 hours or by air drying.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried scutellaria lateriflora flowers with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the liquid to dark glass bottles for storage.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for jaw clenching?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with jaw clenching is a blend of Passionflower, Kava, and Valerian root.

Passionflower helps to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, while Kava relaxes the muscles and reduces tension. Valerian root promotes deep relaxation and improves sleep quality, which can contribute to jaw clenching at night.

Taking a 20-30 drop tincture of this blend before bed can help alleviate jaw clenching and promote a restful night's sleep.

What ailments similar to jaw clenching are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to jaw clenching that are treated with herbal tinctures are anxiety, stress-related disorders, and muscle tension.

Herbs such as valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of overactive muscles like jaw clenching.

Other herbs like skullcap and lavender can also be used to soothe digestive issues related to stress, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).